Lions set to show their claws in Melbourne battle

Papua New Guinea cruised into the quarter-finals with three wins but they face their toughest test of the lot when they tackle England in Melbourne.

Wales, Ireland and USA were all sent packing by the Kumuls, who won those games by an aggregate of 128-12 but they were all on home soil in Port Moresby and this rare away-day jolly could be one to forget.

England arrive in the last eight after wins against France and Lebanon, with defeat to Australia in the competition's opening match their only blemish.

The Lions have barely had to get out of second gear but they will have to crank it up a bit to see off their lively opponents.

Expectations are high for England who are 2-11 to win in 80 minutes and asked to give up 16 points on the handicap.

Papua New Guinea are the third highest-scoring team in the competition with 24 tries but they may struggle to add many more.

England's success has been built on a strong defence while using their pace out wide.

Wayne Bennett's men can cover the handicap and it may be worth backing flying winger Jermaine McGillvary to cross the whitewash at least twice.

The Huddersfield man has four tries to his name in England's three games and a penchant to attack down McGillvary's right wing could pay dividends.